Annapurna Circuit Trek

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Annapurna Circuit Trek
View from Annapurna Circuit Trek Route
Annapurna Circuit Trek
Duration14 Days
Trip GradeStrenuous
Maximum Altitude5,416 meter / 17,770 feet
ActivitiesTrekking / Flight
Group Size1 - 10
StartsKathmandu
EndsKathmandu
Best TimeMarch-May & Sept-Nov

About the trip

Among Nepal's most legendary hiking routes, the Annapurna Circuit Trek is renowned for its amazing variety in scenery and civilizations. As they pass across terraced fields, alpine woodlands, luxuriant subtropical forests, and high-altitude deserts, Trekkers will be enchanted with the Himalayan wilderness and rich legacy of local inhabitants.

Celebrated for its challenging terrain, great beauty, and cultural diversity, the Annapurna Circuit Trek is a legendary walking trip in Nepal. From the lush subtropical lowlands to the high-altitude alpine region, this hike skirts the Annapurna peak and finishes across the Thorong La Pass. Annapurna Circuit is among the top trekking routes; it guarantees an incredible journey over some of the most breathtaking sites on Earth.

Rich in legacy, the Annapurna Circuit was first used decades ago as a commerce road and pilgrimage path. A great walking route attracts visitors from all around the world these days. This historical path offers a great link to the past and a special chance to follow in the footsteps of old traders and pilgrims.

Diverse Landscapes

One of the most beautiful aspects of the Annapurna Circuit is its different scenery. The hike winds amid lush rhododendron and oak groves beginning in the beautiful subtropical woodlands. These rich in species like langur monkeys, Himalayan tahrs, and diverse bird woodlands would thrill Trekkers greatly.

As you rise, the surrounds alter drastically. Teraced fields replacing the subtropical woodlands produce barley, millet, and rice. These agricultural environments are proof of the inventiveness and tenacity of surrounding farmers who have over decades adapted to the challenging landscape. The wonderful mosaic created by the terraced fields highlights the beauty of the path.

Later on, the topography resembles high-altitude deserts from the Tibetan Plateau and alpine meadows. This austere, barren beauty is contrasted in the lowlands by the presence of gleaming clean rivers and occasional greenery. From broad vistas of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, the high-altitude area—especially around the Thorong La Pass—offers some of the most amazing alpine scenery.

Cultural richness of the Annapurna Circuit Trekking

The cultural variety on the Annapurna Circuit is as startling as its natural splendor. The road crosses towns dotted with several ethnic groups, each with its own language, customs, and way of life. Along the road the Gurung, Manangi, Thakali, and Tibetan communities create a rich cultural tapestry improving the trekking experience.

In the lower sections, one could find traditional stone structures with thatched roofs and Gurung villages with typically exquisitely carved wooden windows. Celebrated for their kindness and support of the British Gurkha soldiers, the Gurung people As you continue, you will cross Manangi people area; they have remarkably adapted to the difficult high-altitude surroundings. Their stone structures combining Tibetan and Nepalese architectural features have flat rooves and beautiful monasteries.

One of the cultural highlights of the trip is seeing Muktinath, a holy site loved by Hindus as well as Buddhists. Every year, thousands of pilgrims come to this pilgrimage destination to pay their respect at the temple and wash in the holy rivers. The spiritual environment and breathtaking mountain views of Muktinath make for a quite unique experience.

Adventure and Challenge

The Annapurna Circuit is well-known for its difficult terrain, great height variance, and changing weather. The walk exams strength, mental tenacity, and endurance. That said, the benefits are still really exceptional. Once you reach Thorong La Pass, the highest point of the trek at 5,416 meters, you will feel rather proud of your progress. From the pass, one finds several deep valleys and snow-capped mountains in all directions. This is among the most amazing 360-degree perspectives available in the Himalayas.

With distinct flora and fauna unique to different altitudinal zones, the walk presents a great richness. Lower areas will show verdant oak, pine, and rhododendron forests. These give way to alpine meadows filled with wildflowers as you climb, then to the austere, rocky scenes above the treeline. Fans of wildlife may find animals such the Himalayan tahr, langur monkeys, and a range of bird species including eagles and pheasants.

Itinerary

The schedule below is a standard template of what we offer, a guidance. Our tour can be tailored to your needs even after the booking has been confirmed, therefore addressing your particular wants. 

Trip PlanExpand All

At the Kathmandu airport, our representative will kindly welcome you and promptly take you to your hotel. You have the day as you wish once you check in. Discover surrounding landmarks, unwind among the noises and views of the area, or meander around the energetic streets of Thamel, well-known for its markets, stores, and eateries. Alternatively, relax at the hotel, savoring its facilities and peace, let yourself heal and rejuvenate before your next trip.

Max Altitude: 1,400 m / 4,593 ft Accommodation: Hotel

The seven to eight hour trip from Kathmandu to Jagat winds some of the most amazing landscape in Nepal. As you drive down gorgeous roads, you will be in wonder of terraced farms, historic villages, and varied scenery. The road provides ideal, quick-moving waves following the Marshyangdi River together with sporadic views of far-off snow-capped mountains. This beautiful drive transforms every minute into a visual feast and a priceless part of your trip, offering a great introduction to the several sites and civilizations you will visit.

Max Altitude: 1,300 m / 4,265 ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Guesthouse

Trekking from Jagat to Danaque (1,860 m / 6,102 feet) will offer you a rich combination of geography and culture. The Marshyangdi River's soft flow transports you across terraced fields and rich woodlands. Traditional stone houses and energetic towns offer a view into the local way of life along the route, therefore improving your journey with their attractiveness and energy.

From bustling local scenes to the tranquil, broad plains of Danaque, the road gently rises to provide breathtaking views and paths. Nestled on a ridge, Danaque provides a calm refuge with wide views allowing one to unwind and absorb the Annapurna region. This section of the trip deftly blends the Himalayan natural and cultural treasures to provide the setting for the adventures remaining to be had.

Max Altitude: 1,860 m / 6,102 ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Guesthouse

The walk from Danaque to Chame (2,610 m / 8,563 feet) is fascinating amid a shifting landscape. From Danaque, where the Marshyangdi River rushes alongside you with brilliant, clean waters gleaming in the sunlight, the road gently lowers into a lush valley. From broad alpine meadows to dense forests, the surroundings gradually change in hue from brilliant wildflowers decorating the landscape.

The views get increasingly theatrical as you climb. Beautiful communities dotting the road provide windows into the local way of life and culture. Every stride brings the huge Annapurna peaks to rule the skyline. The path gets progressively challenging gradually as deep gorges contribute to the experience.

Amazing mountains surround you in astonishment when you reach Chame. Chame, the administrative capital of the Manang district, is a great spot to unwind and enjoy the amazing mountain views before your excursion while combining rustic beauty with modern conveniences.

Max Altitude: 2,610 m / 8,563 ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Guesthouse

The walk from Chame to Pisang (3,300 m / 10,827 feet) today is a wonderful one with breathtaking vistas. You will pass the lovely Dhukur Pokhari lake following the trail by the Marshyangdi River. The climb is slow and provides lovely scenery all the way.

In Pisang, you can choose to stay in Lower Pisang for more comfortable accommodations, or Upper Pisang for a more rugged experience. Overnight, you’ll stay in a guesthouse with all meals included—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—ensuring a restful and well-fed stop before continuing your adventure.

Max Altitude: 3,300 m / 10,827 ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Guesthouse

Along the Annapurna Circuit, the climb from Pisang to Manang presents breathtaking scenery and cultural insights. Beginning in Pisang, the path winds steadily through verdant forests and ancient Tibetan communities, crossing streams and savoring expansive views of the Annapurna and Pisang tops.

Five or six hours later you will arrive at Manang, a larger settlement at 3,540 meters (11,614 ft). This is a fantastic site to explore Tibetan monasteries, ethnic food, and the energetic culture while adjusting. Comprising part of the Annapurna Circuit, the walk offers a fusion of cultural variety and natural splendor.

Max Altitude: 3,540 m / 11,614 ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Guesthouse

Today you will be exploring the little Himalayan village of Manang to better acclimate to the high altitude instead of climbing farther. Quick climb might have possibly fatal results, hence your safety and well-being depend on spending some time to adapt.

Manang provides a range of mild hikes and quick adventures ideal for maintaining activity as your body adjusts the height. Apart from helping with acclimatization, these activities will help you to really engage in the local way of life and appreciate the beautiful surroundings.

Watching an evening movie on mountains and climbing will help you to relax and broaden your awareness of the surroundings. This offers a great chance to relax in the tranquility of Manang and learn about the difficulties and successes of high-altitude sports.

Max Altitude: 3,540 m / 11,614 ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Guesthouse

Composing a slow and quiet level ascent, the journey from Manang to Yak Kharka (4,018m / 13,182ft) takes about five hours. First you will drive through the village of Tenki Manang, where a lovely rural setting is created by terraced fields and classic stone buildings. The path eventually leads to the little business center of Ghunsang, which has a few tea shops where you may relax and savor a hot drink—just earned relaxation.

Following a revitalizing rest in Ghunsang, you will resume your path to Yak Kharka. The road winds over fields and wide meadows, progressively heading toward the higher altitudes. Your daily destination is Yak Kharka, a picturesque plateau encircled by high mountains and little vegetation. This peaceful place helps you to relax and adjust to the rising altitude, therefore preparing you for the adventures to come.

Max Altitude: 4,018 m / 13,182 ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Guesthouse

Starting at 4,018 meters (13,183 ft) Yak Kharka and your journey to High Camp winds across an amazing high-altitude scene. The ground changes from rich meadows to tough, alpine desert as you climb. The air thins, and the surroundings get more dramatic with few plants and rocky rocks.

Gradually climbing, the trail offers expansive vistas of far-off slopes and snow-capped peaks. Before descending Thorong La Pass, High Camp is a crucial stop at about 4,800 meters (15,748 ft.) Nestled against a rocky backdrop that creates a calm area for rest and acclimatization, the camp presents a clear contrast to Yak Kharka's vegetation. Here, the elevated position provides amazing views and a strong feeling of being on the edge of the highest mountains, preparing you for the last climb to the Thorong La Pass.

Max Altitude: 4,800 m / 15,748 ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Guesthouse

Beginning High Camp at 4,800 meters (15,748 feet), the journey to Muktinath is an exciting trip. Starting a difficult climb across rocky, snow-covered terrain, the track leads you up to the Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters (17,769 feet.). The difficult climb is rewarded at the pass with amazing panoramic vistas of snow-capped mountains and the great Himalayan range.

Reversing from the pass, the scene changes significantly. The severe, high-altitude desert changes over time to become rich, green valleys. This fall leads you to Muktinath, at 3,780 meters (12,402 feet). 

Hindus and Buddhists equally value the holy location Muktinath. The calm environment and historic temples offer a pleasant finale to your walk and a time to consider the amazing journey and value the great difference between the rocky high-altitude scenery and the calm valley below.

Max Altitude: 5,416 m / 17,769 ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Guesthouse

The last stage of your Annapurna Circuit trip is the walk from Muktinath to Jomsom. Starting the adventure with a calm morning stroll around the Mustang region's beautiful scenery With expansive views of the Kali Gandaki Valley and the surrounding mountains, the trail progressively drops across a scene of barren plains.

Sliding down at a more leisurely speed, this section of the trail provides a welcome diversion from the high-altitude difficulties you encountered before. You will get closer to the energetic town of Jomsom as you meander across little towns and open hills. As you go toward Jomsom, you will see the ground changing and become more colorful with nearby businesses and busy activity every step.

Once at Jomsom, the vibe will be one of celebration and success. This is the last evening your trekking team is here; it is time to reflect on the incredible journey you have undertaken. Getting together with your team will make the surroundings pleasant in order to celebrate the trail's achievements. The evening offers an opportunity to discuss the adventures, respect the friendship, and savor the amazing surroundings and cultural interactions defining your path.

Max Altitude: 2,720 m / 8,924 ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Guesthouse

Early in the morning, you will be joining an incredible flight from Jomsom to Pokhara with breathtaking Himalayan views from above. As the plane lifts, you will float across the wild scenery of the Mustang area and into Pokhara's rich surroundings. One discovers vistas of terraced landscape, deep valleys, and snow-capped mountains plenty on the totally amazing flight.

Arriving in Pokhara, you have an afternoon to tour this little city tucked behind the serene Phewa Lake. Beginning your journey with a slow walk along the lakefront promenade will enable you to appreciate the calm waves reflecting the nearby hills. Visit the Tal Barahi Temple on a lake island and enjoy its breathtaking surroundings.

Wander Lakeside's busy streets reveal restaurants, cafes, and stores. You could quite definitely taste the food and style of life this place offers. For some adventure, see the World Peace Pagoda placed on a mountaintop with wide views of the city, lake, and nearby Himalayan ranges. Apart from its amazing natural beauty and cultural treasures, Pokhara's relaxed attitude offers a great day of exploration and enjoyment.

Max Altitude: 820 m / 2,690 ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Guesthouse

From our breakfast at the Pokhara motel, we walk to the bus terminal. From there we go on a tourist bus back to Kathmandu. After a gorgeous six to seven hour journey including a lunch stop, we will at last arrive at Kathmandu.

Optional: At extra price, you can fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu.

Max Altitude: 1,400 m / 4,593 ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Guesthouse

Your amazing Annapurna Circuit Trekking concludes today. After breakfast, our agent will drive you three hours before your departure time to Tribhuvan International Airport for your next trip.

Alternatively, if you so want, you could extend your stay and more fully discover Nepal's natural beauty! Discover Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur to uncover a universe of possibilities; then, travel much further. Let us arrange a range of interesting activities so you may completely value the rich history, culture, and beauty of this wonderful country.

Meals: Breakfast
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Cost Details
Included
  • Arrival and departure by private tourist vehicle.
  • Standard twin sharing accommodation in a two/three-star hotel in Kathmandu; Breakfast included.
  • Standard twin sharing accommodation in tourist category hotel in Pokhara; Breakfast included.
  • Three time meals during the trek (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner).
  • Teahouse/Guesthouse accommodation during the trek.
  • Local licensed English-speaking guide.
  • We designate one porter for every two guests to carry your bags during the hike.
  • Food, accommodation, salary, insurance, and other required things for all staff.
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permits.
  • Duffel bag, trekking sticks and sleeping bag by the company (which need to be returned after the trek).
  • Kathmandu - Jagat & Pokhara-Kathmandu by tourist coach.
  • All government taxes, vat and service charges.
Excluded
  • Lunch and dinner whilst in Kathmandu and Pokhara 
  • Travel insurance which covers emergency Rescue and Evacuation 
  • International Airfare    
  • Nepal entry visa fee
  • Alcoholic, hot, cold drinks, any bottle drink.
  • Sightseeing/Monument entrance fees in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
  • Personal trekking / tour equipment’s.
  • Tips for tour, trekking staff, nature guide and driver (Tipping is expected).
  • Any others expenses which are not mentioned on “cost Includes” section.
Route Map
Annapurna Circuit Trek Route
Altitude Chart
Annapurna Circuit Trek Altitude Graph
Dates & Availability
Departure Date
Status
Price
Departure Date
Starts: October 24, 2024Ends: November 06, 2024
Status
Available
Price
US$950
Departure Date
Starts: October 30, 2024Ends: November 12, 2024
Status
Guaranteed
Price
US$950

NOTE: During the trip; weather, local politics, transportation or an array of other elements, beyond our control can cause a change of plans. It is rather improbable, though, that the schedule would be significantly changed; should changes be required, the leader will choose the best course of action considering the whole group's best interests. Where a change does take place, we do all we can to minimize its impact; nonetheless, we cannot be responsible for the outcomes of delays or changes.

Essential Information

When should one go trekking the Annapurna Circuit?

While planning your journey will significantly enhance your experience, the Annapurna Circuit Trek offers breathtaking views and diverse landscape. Embarking on this journey would be best in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November).

Annapurna Circuit Trek is best done in spring, (March to May), when the temperature is usually mild and pleasant. Trekking is best suited for temperatures that fall between warm afternoon highs and colder evenings. The trails are covered in blossoming rhododendrons and other wildflowers during this season, therefore producing a vivid and striking background.Thanks in significant part to the stunning sky and warm weather, Trekkers will enjoy a visual feast in the Annapurna and D haulagiri mountains. Spring offers a more calm travel since it is less congested than fall.

Autumn, September to November, is still another ideal season for the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Usually tranquil, the weather is perfect for enjoying the amazing mountain views since the skies are clear and vision is good. Temperatures are moderate; good midday warmth and chilly evenings create an interesting walking experience. The busiest time for hiking is autumn, hence the paths and teahouses are humming with other hikers, which gives your trip a vibrant energy. This popularity, meanwhile, also makes it advisable to reserve permits and lodging ahead of time.

From brilliant spring blossoms to the pure autumn clarity, both seasons have unique benefits that guarantee the Annapurna Circuit Trek is a year-round fulfilling experience.

Can Beginners Successfully Complete the Annapurna Circuit?

Experienced hikers who is familiar with multi-day trips and high-altitude environments would find Annapurna Circuit Trek perfect. For those who have overcome comparable difficulties in the past, its moderate climb and well-defined paths are within reach.

With adequate preparation, the climb is achievable for enthusiastic newcomers. If you are physically fit and commit yourself to suitable training including long walks with a weighted pack, you can control the difficulties of the journey.

Adventurers will be delighted by the Annapurna Circuit with its fascinating mix of landscape from little towns to tough mountains and beautiful forests. There are lots of chances for cultural immersion and this trip offers an exciting experience.

Trekkers will value the contacts with local populations including the Gurung, Magar, and Thakali that appeal to cultural vultures. This path provides a rich experience of the dynamic customs and way of life in the area.

With its highest point at Thorong La Pass, which calls for cautious acclimatization, the Annapurna Circuit offers overall modest to demanding challenge. Trekkers should be ready for variable weather, different elevations, and long trek days.